Thokozile Mnguni
The City of Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero says the metro is shifting focus towards strengthening governance, improving service delivery, and building on existing progress, as he delivered a wide-ranging State of the City Address reflecting on the city’s development trajectory.
The Mayor said Johannesburg had “collectively laid the foundation of the future” and emphasised that the city must now build on that progress through stronger implementation and cooperation.
“This is your city. This is our city,” the Mayor said, adding that a “good foundation has been laid” and the focus must now be on improving delivery and outcomes for residents.
The address highlighted reflection on past performance, assessment of current challenges, and the setting of clear priorities for the year ahead. The Mayor stressed that governance and service delivery remain central pillars of the city’s agenda.
The Mayor said council had “turned the corner” in its efforts to improve the city and called for greater cooperation across political and administrative structures to enhance efficiency and delivery.
“It is imperative that we reaffirm our commitment to strive for a better tomorrow,” the Mayor said, adding that good governance, democracy, and service delivery must guide the city’s work.
The address also emphasised the need to deepen democracy, strengthen local governance systems, and build a more responsive and people-centred administration.
Johannesburg was described as “a City @ Work” and “the Joburg of our hearts’ desire,” reflecting ongoing efforts to restore functionality and improve urban management.
The Mayor called for increased collaboration to accelerate service delivery, stressing that development must reach all communities, including those previously underserved.
Economic transformation featured in the address, with reference to the goal of building a city of “golden opportunities” that is resilient, sustainable, and liveable.
The Mayor said the city’s future must be shaped by both reflection and action, noting that understanding past performance is essential to building inclusive urban development.
The address concluded with a commitment to a “promising future” and a city that is resilient, sustainable, and liveable.